It’s 2025! New year, new energy, new resolutions , isn’t it ? Every time when it is a new year we tend to set personal resolutions that may or may not be followed throughout the year. But, here, what we can see is us analyzing the life patterns and setting resolutions to make it better every year. Nonetheless, have we ever thought about our career in the same way ? I bet, Not! Or Very less. In this article we will learn about the “Career Wheel” and its eight major aspects to make a resilient and well-rounded career.
Sharing a little back story, I recently came across the concept of the “Wheel of Life” during one of my sessions with Ling Shi- a wellness coach from Germany, and it changed how I see things. This simple yet powerful technique helped me take a step back and evaluate where I stand in the eight major key areas of life. It gave me a clear picture of what’s going well and where I need to focus more.
While I was reflecting on my learnings a few days after the session, it got me thinking: If the Wheel of Life can provide such valuable insights for personal growth, why can’t we apply a similar concept to our jobs/ careers? That’s how the idea of the “Career Wheel” came to my mind.
What is the Career Wheel?
The career wheel is a framework that can help us evaluate and align the significant aspects of our professional journeys through eight major criteria. Each area has its importance for us to evaluate where we stand regarding our career aspirations. Further, through these criterias, you can gain clarity on self-strength and areas of improvement.
The Eight Key Areas of Career Wheel
Is it possible to build a firm house on one single pillar? No! The same is the case with career. To build a strong well-rounded career, you need to focus on various pillars (area in our case), with each area requiring special attention. As aforementioned, the concept of a career wheel is based on eight key areas that are equally important and interconnected. Let us explore each of these areas and see how it can take into action the career growth strategies .
- Skill Development
Are you constantly learning and growing?
Today we are in the generation of work where if you stay stagnant in terms of your knowledge, you tend to fall behind. Learning should be a never-ending process. Alongside, skill development is not only about being technically sound, it is also about having strong soft skills to be able to take the step upwards smoothly. Reflect on your current skill base and analyze areas that require growth and improvement. .
- Networking
Are you building a strong and diverse mandala of network for collaboration and better opportunities?
As humans we often fail to step out of our comfort zone- a zone that’s kind of considered as a black hole that makes us lost in our own little world. But, what we need to understand is that our professional networks are invaluable. You never know what next you shall unfold through your connections. Hence, prioritize building networks by attending events, seminars, keeping up with the connections through informal channels such as social media and maintaining connection with your mentors, colleagues and mutual friends.
- Performance
Have you been delivering measurable results and continuously improving?
Oftentimes as professionals we feel that just ticking off the to-do list is what we require and fail to access the outcome efficiently. Could be because we do not get recognized for achievements or shy away from asking for feedback. But, always understand that recognition and feedback are significant opportunities for us to grow. Additionally, you also need to set goals, celebrate small wins, be consistent, show up regardless of your motivation and add value to your role in the long run.
- Leadership
Are you capable enough to inspire, guide and create an impact in your surroundings?
As there’s a saying “ All managers are leaders but all leaders are not managers” you do not have to be in a managerial position to inspire others. Make your actions speak louder than words, cultivate a leadership mindset, take initiatives, embrace responsibilities and foster collaborations.
- Work-Life Balance
Are you taking care of yourself while running the career race?
We live in the generation where running the “rat-race” is considered normal which ultimately leads to us running the “career race”. But, what we need to understand is that career growth is important but not at the cost of our well-being. A balanced life ensures immense professional growth.
- Recognition
Do you feel appreciated for your contributions?
Recognition and appreciation should be a by-product of your job. You cannot be 100% satisfied in your job if the organization lacks a consistent appreciation and recognition approach. If that’s lacking, speak up your concerns effectively.
- Career Vision
Have you got a firm purpose and direction for your career?
Career without a firm vision is like a travel journey without a destination. Strongly set your goals, values, and aspirations.. Align your current role with your long-term vision, and reassess periodically to stay on track.
- Mentorship
Are you learning from and guiding others sufficiently?
No matter how far you reach in your career pathway, you’ll require a mentor to help you grow and stay on track. Mentorship is a two-way approach that enhances the entire journey. So, look for opportunities to both mentor and be mentored to build a supportive career ecosystem.
Life has its ups and downs, and you won’t always move at the same pace. Additionally, there will be times when you feel unsure or a little lost; and, that’s okay. Hence, take a step back, reflect and focus on your goal. Also, a reminder to all you professionals that success is not just about climbing the step upwards, but building a solid foundation to hold the load for a life-time.
This year, let us all take the first step towards our career advancement. 2025 is our year!
